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Girl Doc Survival Guide

Girl Doc Survival Guide

By: Christine J Ko MD
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About this listen

Young doctors are increasingly in ‘survival’ mode.

Far from flourishing, the relentless pressure of working in medicine means that ‘balance’ is harder than ever to achieve.

On the Girl Doc Survival Guide, Yale professor and dermatologist Dr Christine J Ko sits down with doctors, psychologists and mental health experts to dig into the real challenges and rewards of life in medicine.

From dealing with daily stressors and burnout to designing a career that doesn’t sacrifice your personal life, this podcast is all about giving you the tools to not just survive...

But to be present in the journey.

© 2025 Girl Doc Survival Guide
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Episodes
  • EP181: Carving Paths: Women's Journeys in Medicine with Dr. Eliza Chi
    Aug 27 2025

    Medicine and Motherhood with Dr. Eliza Lo Chin

    This episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide features Dr. Eliza Lo Chin, Executive Director of the American Medical Women's Association (AMWA) and former AMWA President. Dr. Chin, an internist with a focus on women's health, shares her personal journey balancing her career, motherhood, and marriage. She discusses the inspiration behind her anthology, 'This Side of Doctoring: Reflections from Women in Medicine,' and reflects on her path to becoming the Executive Director of AMWA. The conversation touches on the challenges of achieving work-life balance, the importance of community and mentorship, and the evolving role of women in medicine. Dr. Chin emphasizes the diverse opportunities available within the medical profession and encourages female physicians to forge their unique paths.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:43 Motherhood and Medicine

    01:57 Inspiration Behind the Book

    02:58 Challenges and Historical Perspectives

    05:47 Path to Leadership in AMWA

    08:40 Reflections on Work-Life Balance

    10:40 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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    12 mins
  • EP180: The Art of Pathology: Balancing Passion and Profession with Dr. Edward Gutmann
    Aug 20 2025

    The Balance of Work and Passion with Dr. Edward J Gutmann

    In this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine welcomes Dr. Edward J Gutmann, MD, a cytopathologist at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. They discuss Dr. Gutmann's career path which includes studying English and history, and how these experiences inform his work in pathology. Dr. Gutmann shares a memorable anecdote about choosing a Bob Weir concert over an academic lecture, highlighting the importance of personal passions alongside professional commitments. They explore the roles of pathologists, the transient nature of their work compared to tangible products like zippers, and the significance of mentorship and networking in their field. The conversation also addresses the challenges faced by introverts in medicine and the impact of stereotypes among medical professionals. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of relationships and positive communication in fostering better patient care.

    00:00 Introduction to Dr. Edward J Gutmann

    00:51 Anecdotes and Personal Stories

    05:00 The Importance of Networking in Medicine

    06:59 Reflections on a Zipper Factory Visit

    08:46 The Impact of Pathologists

    12:26 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

    14:05 Final Thoughts on Medical Stereotypes

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    17 mins
  • EP179: A Conversation with Dr. William James on Growth, Gratitude, and Dermatology
    Aug 13 2025

    Insights on Success, Optimism, and Emotional Intelligence with Dr. William James

    In this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine interviews Dr. William James, an Emeritus Professor of Dermatology with a distinguished career spanning over four decades. Dr. James shares his extensive medical background, personal anecdotes, and the importance of forming lasting relationships. He discusses key skills that have contributed to his thriving academic career, such as optimism, listening, and respect for others. The conversation also delves into emotional intelligence, handling medical errors, and the evolving nature of professional and personal growth. Dr. James emphasizes gratitude, altruism, and the value of human connections in achieving happiness and success in both life and dermatology.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

    01:42 Personal Anecdotes and Relationships

    02:48 Skills for a Successful Academic Career

    04:50 Finding Meaning Beyond Work

    05:28 Dealing with Mistakes in Medicine

    08:08 Emotional Intelligence and Building Rapport

    11:16 Career Reflections and Serendipity

    12:30 Final Thoughts on Happiness and Gratitude

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    15 mins
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